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Munchausen syndrome mimicking psychiatric disease with concomitant genuine physical illness
Jaime Almeida1, Joaquim Alves da Silva, Miguel Xavier
1Department of Psychiatry and Mental Health, HSFX, Lisboa, Portugal. jaime.almeida@fcm.unl.pt
Abstract:
Munchausen syndrome is a disorder in which patients intentionally produce symptoms mimicking physical or psychiatric illnesses with the aim to assume the sick role and to gain medical attention. Once a patient receives a Munchausen syndrome diagnosis every complaint made thence tends to be regarded with scepticism by clinical staff. However, it is possible that a bona fide illness, which might be disregarded, may coexist in these patients. We report a case of MS mimicking psychiatric disease with concomitant genuine acute physical illness. Despite the initial doubts about the veracity of the latter, due to its prompt recognition, treatment was successful.
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